West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey provided a hopeful update on Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, who was shot in Washington, D.C. last month. Wolfe, 24, is smiling, moving more on his right side and can sit for hours, and his parents say they are "optimistic" about his recovery. The same attack killed Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, 20; the suspect has pleaded not guilty to multiple charges. Officials warn Wolfe faces an intense rehabilitation period and ask for continued prayers and support.
Parents 'Optimistic' As Hospitalized West Virginia Guard Member Shows Encouraging Progress, Governor Says
West Virginia Gov. Patrick Morrisey (R) offered a hopeful update Thursday on U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Andrew Wolfe, the 24-year-old West Virginia National Guard member shot in Washington, D.C., last month.
Speaking at a news conference, Morrisey said Wolfe has been smiling, showing increased movement on the right side of his body and has been able to sit in a chair "for a few hours," according to Wolfe's mother, Melody Wolfe. The governor added that Wolfe's ability to communicate is "improving, although not verbally."
Family, Community and Care
Morrisey said Wolfe's parents, Melody and Jason Wolfe, are "optimistic" about his recovery and "deeply appreciative" of the hospital staff and the outpouring of support. Residents in Berkeley County, W.Va., held a vigil for Wolfe last week, and the West Virginia National Guard posted a video of Melody Wolfe saying her son "is coming along well" and "surpassing expectations."
"All the prayers that you've given, they're working and we're seeing that miracle happen in that hospital bed right now," Melody Wolfe said in the video.
Attack, Investigation and Legal Status
Sgt. Wolfe and U.S. Army Spc. Sarah Beckstrom, both serving with the West Virginia National Guard, were shot near the Farragut West Metro station in Washington, D.C., last month. Beckstrom, 20, died of her injuries on Thanksgiving.
The suspect, 29-year-old Rahmanullah Lakanwal, has pleaded not guilty to charges including first-degree murder, assault with intent to kill while armed, and possessing a firearm during a crime of violence. Authorities continue to investigate the incident.
Outlook and Next Steps
Wolfe, a native of Martinsburg, W.Va., joined the West Virginia National Guard in February 2019 and had been deployed to Washington after Morrisey sent personnel to the District in August. Morrisey cautioned that Wolfe faces "an intense rehabilitation period" ahead and said officials will provide updates as they become available.
"The only request that Melody and Jason have made is everywhere you go in a public setting, please ask for more prayers," the governor said.
